Managing our Environment

Air

Clean air is fundamental to the health of our families, and the health of our region.

Otago Regional Council is responsible for monitoring ambient air quality and working with our communities towards meeting the National Environmental Standards for air quality.

State of Otago’s air

We monitor air quality at seven sites across Otago focusing on the pollutant particulate matter.

Pollutant particulate matter or PM₁₀has natural sources such as dust and sea salt, but it is also emitted during combustion.

The main combustion sources in Otago are from home heating, industry and vehicle exhaust.

PM₁₀ concentrations are highest in winter, due to smoke emitted from chimneys during wood burning for heating.

Our air quality monitoring data helps us report high pollution events, and assess air quality trends over time.

Air quality data

For up-to-date air quality information. Read more

Science behind our air quality

Learn about the air quality in your area. Read more

What we can do

Our Air Plan and Air Strategy have been developed to help manage air pollution in Otago, but we all have a part to play in improving our air quality.

Burn Dry, Breathe Easy

Make sure the wood you are burning is dry. It’s better for your home and the environment. Read more

Approved heating appliances

The air we breathe is vital to leading a healthy life. In winter, some Otago towns exceed the acceptable level of air pollution under the national environmental standards. Read more

Outdoor burning

When conducting a burn off or having a celebratory bonfire, please ensure your outdoor burn complies with Otago Air Plan rules. Read more

Pollution Hotline - reporting of environmental pollution incidents

Phone: 0800 800 033

Email: pollution@orc.govt.nz

If you observe an instance of pollution in Otago, use the Pollution Hotline to report observations of pollution to water, air, or land. Your call or email will be dealt with in complete confidence.

You can also report any instance of pollution online as well.

Report incidents as soon as possible after you see them. Early reporting and evidence helps us to take action. If you can, take some photographs and email them with your report.

Managing our Environment

Air